Question

Select the incorrect statement regarding imbibition.

• A. Imbibition is the phenomenon of adsorption of water or any other liquid without forming solution
• B. The liquid which is imbibed is called as imbibate
• C. There occurs a decrease in volume of imbibant during imbibition
• D. Water is absorbed by germinating seeds through imbibition

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

There occurs a decrease in volume of imbibant during imbibition

The adsorption of water by the solid particles of an adsorbent causing it to enormously increase in volume without forming a solution is called imbibition. Solid substances or adsorbents which take part in imbibition are called imbibants, e.g., seeds, dry wood. The liquid (usually water) which is imbibed is known as imbibate. The imbibate is held in between and over the surface of particles of the solid substance through the processes of capillarity and adsorption. During the process of imbibition, imbibants increase in volume. The swelling imbibant also develops a pressure called imbibition pressure (matric potential).

So, the correct answer is 'There occurs a decrease in volume of imbibant during imbibition'.